Winemaker Notes
Typically cote rotie in its expression. Lifted smoky, peatiness headlines the graphite and tobacco-edged syrah forging process.
Pleasing mid-palate depth and balanced complexities watermark the potential life span and enjoyment window for this cuvee. This class is highlighted by its potential to be enjoyed now or cellared confidently for 25 years.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2005 Syrah Liandra Vineyard was sourced from 100-year-old vines. It is a glass-coating, deep crimson color with aromas of smoke, grilled meat, tar, and blackberry. Full-bodied, opulent, and layered, it neatly conceals its structure. This lengthy Syrah merits 6-10 years of cellaring but can be enjoyed in its youth.
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Wine Enthusiast
Full of dense chocolate and plumcake aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, creamy, rich wine, perked up by hints of orange zest and spice. It’s mouthfilling and round, yet promises to reveal more complexity with several years in the cellar. Drink 2015–2025.
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Wine Spectator
Firm and focused, this is rich with plum, blueberry and exotic spices, finishing with a tarry note that plays against amazingly persistent fruit. The tannins are fine. Best from 2010 through 2020. 500 cases imported
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.